Gilroy Unified School District is located in the southernmost region of Santa Clara County. It is one of a few districts in the county that continues to grow. Over the last 19 years, the student population has grown from 8,448 in 1993-1994 to more than 11,000 K - 12 students today.

The surrounding Gilroy community has experienced growth in housing and industry. Known for its garlic fields, the agricultural areas that surround Gilroy provide a diverse array of agribusiness opportunities for its occupants. The town has also become home to commuters to Silicon Valley and San Jose. Even with the current economic downturn, many of the agribusinesses and other operations are thriving. The housing industry crisis has not impacted the increase in students, which exceeded projected numbers this year by 360 students.